The Silence of Others

El silencio de otros

20191h 35m Directed by Almudena Carracedo
8.1
(80 votes)
Documentary

Overview

The story of the tortuous struggle against the silence of the victims of the dictatorship imposed by General Franco after the victory of the rebel side in the Spanish Civil War (1936-1975). In a democratic country, but still ideologically divided, the survivors seek justice as they organize the so-called “Argentinian lawsuit” and denounce the legally sanctioned pact of oblivion that intends to hide the crimes they were subjects of.

The Silence of Others

Where to Watch The Silence of Others in United States

View page
United States
No streaming options available
This movie may not be available in United States
Data provided by JustWatch

CAST

Ana Messuti
Herself
Ascensión Mendieta
Herself
Carlos Slepoy
Himself
Felisa Echegoyen
Herself
José María Galante
Himself
María Martín
Herself
Maria Servini
Herself
María Ángeles Martín
Herself
María de las Mercedes Bueno
Herself

Unveiling the Shadows of the Past: A Haunting Exploration of Spain's Dark History in "The Silence of Others"

WatchListHQSep 4, 2025
The Silence of Others is a poignant and thought-provoking documentary that delves into the tumultuous history of Spain under the dictatorship of General Franco, shedding light on the atrocities committed during his regime and the subsequent struggle for justice and accountability. The film masterfully weaves together personal testimonies, archival footage, and historical context to create a powerful narrative that not only honors the victims but also serves as a scathing critique of the systemic silence and impunity that has persisted in the country. Through the stories of survivors and their families, the documentary exposes the brutal reality of Franco's regime, where torture, executions, and forced disappearances were commonplace, and the rule of law was mere fiction.

The documentary's central focus on the "Argentinian lawsuit" – a landmark case that seeks to hold accountable those responsible for the crimes committed during Franco's rule – provides a compelling framework for exploring the complexities of transitional justice and the challenges of confronting a painful past. The filmmakers' approach is both intimate and expansive, allowing the audience to connect with the individual stories while also grasping the broader historical and political context. The result is a film that is both a tribute to the resilience and courage of the survivors and a damning indictment of the institutions and individuals who have enabled the silence and impunity to persist. The Silence of Others is a testament to the power of documentary filmmaking to bear witness, to educate, and to inspire, and it is a vital contribution to the ongoing conversation about justice, memory, and accountability in Spain and beyond.

One of the most striking aspects of The Silence of Others is its ability to balance the emotional intensity of the personal stories with a clear-eyed analysis of the political and historical context. The filmmakers avoid sentimentalism and sensationalism, instead opting for a nuanced and thoughtful approach that acknowledges the complexity of the issues at hand. The film's pacing is deliberate and measured, allowing the audience to absorb the weight of the testimonies and the significance of the historical events. The cinematography is understated yet effective, using a mix of archival footage, interviews, and observational footage to create a sense of immediacy and intimacy. Overall, The Silence of Others is a masterpiece of documentary filmmaking that will leave viewers moved, informed, and inspired to engage with the critical issues of justice, memory, and human rights.

Trailer